Gold for Grant at World University Championships

University of Stirling triathlete Grant Sheldon has been crowned World University Triathlon Champion at the recent event in Switzerland.

The sports scholar and mathematics student fought off competition from Jonas Schomburg of Turkey, who took silver, and Léo Bergere from France who earned bronze medal position.

The best elite student athletes from 33 countries competed in the 13^th World University Triathlon Championships in Nyon in Switzerland - and it was Grant who came out on top in the men’s race.

Coached by Gordon Crawford of triathlonscotland, the young talent was well-prepared for the challenge ahead.

“It’s incredibly special to achieve my first ever international win and to have a championship title to my name. This was a race I wanted to do well in and to represent the University, and race for them, felt fantastic. I wanted to give something back for the support I have received up to now”, said Grant, “A training camp in Spain helped me prepare for the second half of the season and to gain this positive result is a real boost. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my coach, the University and triathlonscotland.

“With less than a month until the end of the season, I’m now looking towards the Under 23 World Championships and into next year where I’ll chase qualification for the Commonwealth Games. For me, this is my chance to break through and compete at the top level.”

Coach Gordon Crawford added: “Grant’s success in Switzerland is part of a long-term plan to help him achieve success at the very highest level. This season he’s been able to get more experience racing at a certain level and taking Scotland’s first ever medal in a men’s championship race is testament to Grant’s ambition and tenacity.

“He is fast becoming a student of his sport – competitive, receptive and tenacious which is why he is so great to work with. This latest success is an indication of Grant’s performance and I believe we can expect lots more from this young man as his professionalism also grows.”

Cathy Gallagher, Director of Sport at the University also added: “Everyone at the University is incredibly proud of Grant’s sporting achievement. To be World Champion among your peers is a notable feat and his success is much deserved. We have athletes across a number of sports representing their country and University to an outstanding standard and Grant is one of those ambassadors who we hold in such esteem.”

Grant was joined at the event by Sports Coaching student Natalie Milne and Environmental Management Masters student Douglas Roberts. The championship concluded with a closing ceremony on the shore of Lake Geneva.

All three athletes are part of the University of Stirling triathlon and Winning Students scholarship programmes, which support current international and developing student athletes.